Full-body magnetic resonance imaging reveals more medically significant abnormalities than expected
Whole-body magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a state-of-the-art diagnostic method in which the entire body is scanned in detail from multiple angles using various pulse sequence weightings. The purpose of the examination is to detect early-stage changes and abnormalities that are medically significant, such as cancer tumors and arterial aneurysms. Rapid technological advances in MRI, the increase in cancer incidence, and the need for preventive health services have contributed to the growing adoption of whole-body MRI in Europe.
Peace of mind and significant health findings
During Visio’s first year of whole-body MRI examinations, approximately 15% of individuals scanned were found to have cancer tumors or suspected tumors requiring further investigation, as well as cerebral aneurysms. These individuals have been referred for further evaluation, some on an urgent basis and others with routine priority.
Some of these findings are benign and require only monitoring. Others, however, would have led to a substantial reduction in life expectancy had they been discovered at a later stage. Unfortunately, there are also cases where early detection does not significantly alter the overall prognosis.
When other findings requiring additional measures are taken into account (e.g., certain ovarian abnormalities, intestinal findings, and arterial calcifications), it can be concluded that approximately 20% of all individuals examined had medically relevant findings that resulted in either further diagnostic steps or at least follow-up.
At Visio, benign findings such as simple cysts are clearly communicated to the customer, but they do not lead to unnecessary additional investigations.
For the majority of customers, the examination has provided valuable information and reassurance about their health. Some have received guidance from a general practitioner during the remote consultation included in the imaging package—either on lifestyle changes to help manage an early-stage condition (e.g., fatty liver) or on seeking further medical evaluation.
Early cancer detection almost always improves survival
Especially in the case of cancer, early detection has a decisive impact on life expectancy. For some cancer types, early detection can increase the five-year survival rate by up to tenfold compared with detection at an advanced stage of the disease*.
Preventive diagnostics and screening-type examinations, such as whole-body MRI and screening mammography, can play a crucial role in promoting public health in Finland. When diseases are detected at an early stage—before symptoms appear—treatment is usually more effective and less burdensome. Early diagnosis also enables timely lifestyle changes or targeted treatments, often before the disease progresses into a serious condition.
*Source: American Cancer Society